MS SB2901

First responders (law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services providers, emergency management personnel, and public safety telecommunicators) who join the Public Employees' Retirement System on or after March 1, 2026, will receive the same retirement benefits as members who joined between July 1, 2011, and March 1, 2026.

Average compensation for first responders will be calculated using the four highest years of earned compensation, rather than the eight consecutive years required for other new members joining after March 1, 2026.

First responders joining after March 1, 2026, will be eligible for creditable service for unused leave, unlike other new members who will not receive this benefit.

The bill defines specific categories of first responders including certified law enforcement officers, firefighters meeting State Fire Personnel standards, EMS personnel certified by the State Department of Health, 911 dispatchers, emergency management personnel, and public safety telecommunicators.

First responders must meet certification requirements from relevant state boards (Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Training, Mississippi Fire Personnel Minimum Standards and Certification Board, or State Department of Health) to qualify for these benefits.